When Belize first earned the ubiquitous nickname “Mother Nature’s Best Kept Secret,” the “secret” part was not far-fetched. A decade ago, travelers donned quizzical looks when Belize was mentioned. “Is that in Europe?” they would’ve asked. But now, the tropical nation is becoming the go-to destination for all things reef and adventure. And it seems media houses took notice. For the past few years, Belize has been showered with accolades from acclaimed publications, and this year is no different. Belize has been named one of the top destinations for travel by not one, but three major publications. This doesn’t include the slew of awards Belize accommodations have also received throughout the year. So if you’re planning a 2022 vacation but not sure where to travel, these publications will surely convince you Belize is the one.
Time: World’s Greatest Places 2021
Alaia Belize’s Rooftop Lounge & Pool.
A household name, Time carries weight way outside the travel industry or just Belize. The media behemoth is mostly known for its annual “Time Person of the Year” features. For their third ever World’s Greatest Places List, Time listed Belize as one of the 100 countries they chose. According to the publication, the list was “a tribute to the people and businesses at the forefront of those industries who, amid extraordinary circumstances, found ways to adapt, build and innovate.” They mention how these places focused on ingenuity, creativity, revitalization, and reopenings. When it comes to choosing Belize, Time speaks of the Central American country’s pristine environment and vast Belize Maya Forest. “Belize is setting the stage for more visitors with the recent opening of the new Alaia Belize,” Ali Wunderman writes. The article also cites Itz’ana Resort & Residences as a go-to private beachfront stay.
Lonely Planet: Best in Travel 2022
The entrance of ATM Cave. Photo by Leonardo Melendez Photography
Another honor is being named a must-visit destination by one of the most trusted travel publications in the world. Lonely Planet (LP) just released their Best in Travel list for 2022, and Belize was included in the Top 5. “Carefully selected by our editors, [this] list is meant to inspire and excite you, and help make your 2022 travel dreams a reality,” the article states. It’s no surprise, then, that Belize was #4 on the list, with dreamy attractions set to inspire you every which way you turn. Under Belize, LP highlights the reefs, jungles, our beloved Maya people, and a plethora of adventures found in the country. The UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the Belize Barrier Reef is mentioned, along with Belize’s thriving flora and fauna. Both ATM Cave and the Great Blue Hole make cameos in the article, urging travelers to explore these art forms when visiting.
National Geographic: 25 Amazing Journeys for 2022
CARA BLANCA POOLS An aerial view of the Cara Blanca Pools 16, 17, 18, 19 in Belize’s Maya Forest © Tony Rath
“We’re ready to explore again,” writes the NatGeo staff, and we are right there with them. The globally respected travel magazine had its top editors pick out the planet’s 25 most exciting destinations. Belize shares the coveted list with Australia, Namibia, France, Costa Rica, and many other sites. Once again, the Belize Maya Forest Reserve takes the spotlight, with the publication zeroing in on Belize’s conservation efforts. Efforts that have been wildly paying off, mind you. “The combined reserve, which protects nearly a tenth of Belize’s land area, safeguards and connects essential habitats for an amazing variety of endemic and endangered wild things.” These “wild things” are the pride and joy of Belize, creatures the country goes to great lengths to protect. This can be evidenced by the country’s coalition with The Nature Conservancy. This is just one example of the many preservations plans Belize has enacted, and we’re glad such an acclaimed publication recognized it.
Fly over the Great Blue Hole with Maya Island Air
While these are three of the biggest travel distinctions the country has received lately for 2022, Belize’s hotels have also been in and out of the limelight all year. Top travel resources like Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, and many more have awarded Belize hotels across a multitude of categories. So don’t take it from alone us when we say a Belize vacation in 2022 is bound to be one you can’t miss.
